A RadioShack spokesman didn’t respond to a request for comment. But sources said JPMorgan Chase has won the job of leading the sale process, and fresh evidence is turning up that the process is quietly advancing.

In a securities filing late last week, RadioShack said it hasn’t repurchased any of its shares this year despite a $290 million authorization.

A Best Buy spokeswoman said, “We have a long-standing corporate practice of not commenting on rumor or speculation.” Officials at the big-box retailer have been “extremely cagey” when asked about a possible combination with RadioShack, according to one industry source.

While some experts are skeptical of the idea of Best Buy acquiring RadioShack, some analysts note that a significant number of RadioShack leases are up for renewal during the next few years.

That could give Best Buy flexibility as it looks to expand a smaller retail format that’s focused on smartphones and other wireless devices.

Best Buy “has their new concept figured out,” according to one source briefed on the company’s plans. “All they need is the real estate to roll it out quickly.”